Beijing Accelerator was created after being inspired
by a recent visit to Beijing, and the realization of how quickly
the dynamics of a city could transform into such apparent modernism.
Although similar to an earlier prototype, Panoramic Acceleration,
in that it also explores the effects of a tempo-driven society on
the individual, this new version has an enhanced cinematographic
experience as well as a superior interface.

The basic working principle is naturally akin to
the original model; the participant takes position in a racing-chair
on a motorized structure equipped with a joystick. This time however,
a 160x120 cm screen is positioned in front of the user and while
they control both the direction and speed of the chair, rotating
panoramic images are projected on the screen before them. The aim
is to synchronize the moving image with the rotation of the chair.
Once this is achieved, the participant is able to view the images
properly and the disorientation associated with the uncoordinated
spinning is blocked.

Specific to the Beijing Accelerator, the target
square in the top panoramic image needs to be matched with the same
position shown on the magnified image below. As soon as this is
achieved the images “snap into place” and consequently
rotate in sync with the participants movement. After a short period
of time however, a new rotating-panorama appears with a higher preset
speed. This is determined as the next level and is more difficult
to obtain the aforementioned balance in order to cohesively recognize
the picture. In total, about 6 levels need to be accomplished for
completion of the experience.